Absence Epilepsy

Absence seizures represent a form of epilepsy characterized
primarily negative clinical phenomena, i.e. loss or diminution of normal
activity. Staring and transient loss of responsiveness are the most common
manifestations, although subtle motor activity may occur, including eyelid
fluttering or myoclonic jerks. Due to the brief and subtle nature of these
episodes, absence epilepsy may go unrecognized for long periods of time
or be mistakenly attributed to daydreaming or attention deficit disorder.

Absence spells may last up to 10 seconds apiece and occur
dozens of times daily. Patients have no recollection of events occurring
during a seizure and will resume their previous activity without any postictal
symptoms.

A genetic basis for absence epilepsy has been postulated,
since neuroimaging is typically normal and close relatives frequently demonstrate
generalized epileptiform abnormalities on EEG. The specific mode of genetic
transmission awaits precise elucidation.